after a 12 hour work day - I figure I can get the highlights here and through other sources in the early am.

I am well read and know how to get the information. Pondering what the lack of coverage (esp for those who don't have cable - often for budgetary reasons) means per an informed electorate.

On the other hand, it might limit the post convention bump - if a lot of folks don't see the coverage. Conversely some who might be turned off by the rhetoric, won't witness that which might turn them off.

n/t

often they are looking for alternatives. In the past when events had such big national importance, the major networks carried those events. By doing so a national conversation began.

I think the conversation began because there was a common viewing experience.

How many folks who aren't that political will seek out PBS over their regular viewing shows (that are playing on the networks.)

if you have one near you.

Thank you for the suggestion - but my pondering is for those who are nonpolitical. Those who aren't going to seek it out. It used to be that such events would have universal coverage and the next day there would be conversations occurring because of that common experience.

I know how to get good information about the convention(s) even if the networks don't cover them.

My question is how does this change in coverage shift the dynamic in elections? Or perhaps it doesn't?

I meant to respond to ItsRobert.

these days, the big cable networks are not going to interrupt their normal schedules for the RNC or DNC. Only one hour seems reasonable. Most people do have cable and can watch it on C-Span.

I think the lack of coverage just adds to the damage.

I don't plan on watching a second of the GOP convention, and I probably won't watch much of the DEMs' one.
Just not interested this time around.
I watched both in 2004 and 2008.

Just not interested this year. I think I was much more naive back then.

My mom wanted me to come up and stay with her and my dad until the storm passes, so I'm over here at the dining table while they're watching the convention on Fox News. I'm doing my best to block it out, but every now and then I hear some of the crazy lies they're spewing. Oh, good, they're going to bed.

That would drive me crazy! You are a good daughter. Safety trumps all. That said... Fox news and the conventions - that would be annoying!

Be safe (per the storm)!

The storm just made landfall on the other side of New Orleans. We're getting a little wind and the feeder bands are bringing us rain from time to time, but I think the worst we'll see is some localized flooding. That damned convention almost makes me wish the power was out, though.

I don't watch much television. Pretty much none unless it's a movie I wanted to see, etc.

My take? Considering the people they have speaking it can't be good that people will get the homogenized version from the media.

However, the convention is mostly for the politically obsessed. So, all in all, I bet it evens out.

I have to admit that my reaction (given my narrow viewing options - and I gave up cable because I watch tv for so few hours a day/week) was positive. Glad to avoid the coverage. Then I started thinking about what that means for people who dont read multiple news sources a day.

I appreciate your perspective (the balanced outcome).